This paper presents part I of the "Massachusetts Primer on Special Education and Charter Schools." It provides an explanation of a charter school's legal status within the Massachusetts public education system and a synopsis of federal laws that are most relevant to special education in charter schools. The information is intended for those who may not fully understand the legal status of charter schools within the Massachusetts public education system, or may not have a working knowledge of, or need a brief update on, federal special education laws and regulations. [This document was developed with the assistance of the TA Customizer Project. For other sections, see Section II (ED543920) and Section III (ED543928).]